Category: Sermons

Reverend Phil Simmonds

PASTORS THOUGHTS

“In Chapter 4 of 1 Thessalonians, Paul moves on from encouragement to instruction in what many commentators describe as the “ethics” of Christian living – what Paul also refers to in Philippians l.2:12b as “continuing to work your salvation with fear and trembling!” The focus being to live a life that increasingly seeks to please God in every aspect (Christ likeness). But Paul also moves onto qualify/ expand his previous instruction re: the Lord’s Return (Second Coming) – affirming that the saving work of Christ (His death and resurrection) extends beyond physical death into a guaranteed resurrected life with Christ. May all Christian’s be challenged to “continue to work out their salvation” to the glory of God in this life, and be encouraged by God’s promise of their resurrected life to come, in and through Jesus Christ”.

Reverend Phil Simmonds

PASTORS THOUGHTS

“Chapter 3 of 1 Thessalonians reminds me of the old saying – “iron sharpens iron” – which can be found in Proverbs 27:17 “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another”. In Old testament culture, one iron blade was used to sharpen another – which makes the sharpened blade more useful and effective. In the context of Chapter 3, this relates to caring relationships, sometimes involving criticism, and positive perseverance that encourages others spiritually and personally. May we be as iron sharpens irons to others.”

Reverend Phil Simmonds

PASTORS THOUGHTS

“Chapter 2 of 1 Thessalonians, provides us with a unique insight of what it meant to be part of a “new” church plant during the early pioneering mission work of the New Testament Church. It reveals the truly testing and threatening circumstances facing the newly established Church – and the attitude required of both Pastor and congregation to persevere. The reason for doing so – to be a Gospel witness for Christ, and to become the means by which the gentiles may be saved. Is this also our reason for being His Church? “

Reverend Phil Simmonds

PASTORS THOUGHTS

“This week we start a new message series based upon Thessalonians 1 & 2. Paul having established the new Church, has since been forced to flee from the persecution of the Jews, and now writes to the Thessalonian church to encourage the new Christians to continue with the work of the Gospel – Godly living and provide assurance to believers re the “second coming of Christ”. God willing, we will all be encouraged and challenged by God’s inerrant Word”